Devil Comet 2024: when will it pass through the USA and on what date will it return to Earth?
The massive devil comet officially named 12P/Pons-Brooks will pass by Earth for the first time in 71 years. It might be seen during the total solar eclipse.
The return of the devil comet is one of the most anticipated astronomical events for the year 2024. It has taken 71 years to once more pass Earth.
The scientific name of the comet is 12P/Pons-Brooks, in honor its discoverers French astronomer Jean-Louis Pons, who discovered it on July 20, 1812, and American astronomer William Robert Brooks, who viewed it on September 1, 1883.
It’s nicknamed the devil comet because of its formation that appears to be two horns composed of ice, gas, and periodic explosions.
Like other comets, Pons-Brooks is primarily composed of dust, rock, and frozen gases such as water, carbon dioxide, and ammonia. When it approaches the Sun, the heat causes these volatile substances to vaporize, creating a glowing coma-a cloud of gas and dust- and sometimes a tail that points away from the Sun due to solar wind.
READ ALSO: Free solar eclipse glasses in New York
When will the devil comet be visible to Earth?
With astronomical luck, the rare passing of the comet may be visible during the total solar eclipse that will take place on April 8, according to NASA.
Due to the sudden darkness that will ensue when the moon passes in between the Sun and the Earth, skywatchers will have a better view of the sky. It may be dark enough to see stars and the devil comet as it whizzes through the solar system.
Astronomers say that the comet will likely be visible on April 21, the date on which it will record its closest approach to the Sun and shine its brightest.
READ ALSO: How much does Opill cost and when will it be available?
READ ALSO: Over fifty cases of the measles have already been recorded in the US in 2024
However, the event might be seen from Earth a week before and after that day. The heavenly body’s periodic explosions make it brighter and easier to see with telescopes and sometimes with the naked eye. Scientists encourage sky gazers to be more vigilant in the coming months, as an unexpected explosion could suddenly make the comet much more visible.
Traveling along the solar system, 12P/Pons Brooks will be closest to planet Earth on June 2, which may offer another chance to see it. However, the conditions for clear visibility are not as ideal as they would be during the total solar eclipse. The next time the devil comet will pass by Earth will be in 2095.